We used the 614's booster extensively when hauling full tonnage rated trains up long hard pulls 17 mile grade and Sandpatch. Other that that I only needed to booster to get the train started twice in all the trips when I was her hogger, but in those 2 cases we wouldn't have gotten under way without it.

I too will be riding Saturday's 2102 trip. I'll be in o/w coach # 4 and look forward to meeting some fellow RyPN posters.

Thanks, Ross

Mr. Rowland,
Thank you for the response.
How did using the booster effect steam management?

It effected steam management by increasing the consumption of steam at a given speed by about 20%. As the booster would be cut out above 20mph the boiler was easily able to supply that additional amount of steam.

A booster is a very nice machine to have in your vest pocket should you get into a situation where it can make the difference of go or no go.

Ross Rowland